It may take all the willpower you have to put down that jelly donut, but here’s some more motivation: Following a diet that’s high on the glycemic index can destroy more than just your chances for a slim figure, according to researchers at Tufts University.

Researchers found that frequently consuming high-glycemic foods can raise your risk of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), which is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness. This is because foods high on the index make your blood glucose levels soar. And if your blood glucose levels are always elevated, as they would be in someone who eats high GI foods frequently, the excess glucose will damage retinal proteins and cause inflammation, which in turn leads to eye disease and blindness.

But you don’t have to turn a blind eye to all carbs to protect your vision. Researchers found that a high total carbohydrate intake didn’t increase a person’s risk of ARMD. In other words, the type of carbohydrate you consume is more important than the actual amount. Think quality over quantity: Foods that are high on the index, such as French fries, will add to vision damage while foods lower on the index, such as lentils, will not.

So even though you may miss your sugary treats at first, think of all the beautiful events you don’t want to miss in the future, such as your child graduating from college or a gorgeous sunset. Also, eating foods low on the index will most likely lead to weight loss, and you’ll be able to find your abs again. Now that’s a sight for sore eyes!

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